Is Scary Movie Appropriate for 12 Year Olds?

When it comes to deciding what movies are appropriate for children, parents often struggle to strike a balance between entertainment and age-appropriate content. One such movie that has sparked debate in recent years is the horror-comedy film, “Scary Movie”. In this article, we will take a closer look at whether or not “Scary Movie” is appropriate for 12-year-olds.

What is Scary Movie?

“Scary Movie” is a parody film that pokes fun at various horror movies. It was released in 2000 and has since spawned four sequels.

The movie features crude humor, sexual content, and violence. It has received an R-rating from the Motion Picture Association of America (MPAA) for its strong language, sexual content, drug use, and violence.

The Arguments For

Proponents of allowing 12-year-olds to watch “Scary Movie” argue that it is a harmless comedy that exaggerates the violence in horror movies for comedic effect. They argue that children are already exposed to violent content through video games and television shows and that “Scary Movie” does not promote or glorify violence.

Those who support this argument also claim that watching comedies like “Scary Movie” can be a healthy way for children to cope with their fears of scary things. By laughing at the exaggerated violence on screen, children can reduce their anxiety about real-life scary situations.

The Arguments Against

Opponents of allowing 12-year-olds to watch “Scary Movie” argue that it contains explicit sexual content and language that is not appropriate for children. They state that the movie’s humor relies heavily on crude sex jokes and innuendos which can encourage inappropriate behavior in impressionable children.

Moreover, opponents argue that exposure to violent content can lead to desensitization towards real-life violence or cause anxiety disorders in some children. They claim that even if “Scary Movie” is a parody, it still contains graphic and violent scenes that can be disturbing to young viewers.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the decision of whether or not to allow a 12-year-old to watch “Scary Movie” ultimately falls on the parents. While the movie may offer some comedic relief to children’s fears of scary things, its explicit sexual content and violence may not be suitable for all 12-year-olds. Parents should consider their child’s maturity level, personality, and sensitivity before making a decision.

Regardless of whether or not “Scary Movie” is deemed appropriate for 12-year-olds, it is essential for parents to have open and honest conversations with their children about what they are watching and why certain movies may not be appropriate for them. By doing so, parents can help their children make informed decisions about what movies they watch and instill critical thinking skills that will help them navigate through adult life.